ABOUT FRESH ENERGY
Fresh Energy is a Minnesota-based nonprofit organization with a mission to shape and drive bold policy solutions to achieve equitable carbon-neutral economies. For more than 30 years, Fresh Energy has been a north star leader advancing a swift, equitable transition to clean energy in Minnesota and beyond. We’re working to decarbonize Minnesota’s five primary economic sectors—electricity, buildings, transportation, heavy industry, and agriculture—by designing and advocating for policies, advancing implementation in key venues, and informing and inspiring the public through multifaceted communications. Together, we are committed to ensuring Minnesota has a carbon free economy by mid-century and vibrant quality of life where all can thrive. As we conduct our work, Fresh Energy lives its core values, creating a dynamic and welcoming workplace.
Fresh Energy’s Commitment to Equity and Equal Opportunity Employer Policy reflect our commitment to ensure equality, treat everyone with respect, and promote diversity in the workplace.
Job Overview
Each legislative session, Fresh Energy works to support a range of priorities at the Minnesota State Legislature to help move Minnesota towards an equitable, carbon neutral economy. Minnesota has historically been a regional leader in clean energy policy; advancing solutions at the state capitol is critical to seeing the greenhouse gas emissions reductions we need both here in Minnesota, as well as nationally. The role of the session-only position will help support the fast-paced work of tracking and advancing our priorities. This position will work with the Policy Solutions and Implementation team, the Communications team, policy experts across our organization, and organizational partners to support these efforts.
The Session Associate, Legislative Affairs is a temporary, full-time position with an anticipated start date in mid-December of 2026 and an end date in late May 2027.
Essential Responsibilities
Support Fresh Energy’s capacity to deliver legislative advancements in clean energy policy, in coordination with Fresh Energy’s public affairs strategy.
- Act as key team member for advancing Fresh Energy’s legislative priorities during the 2026 legislative session.
- Read, track, and share relevant bill introductions internally.
- Attend and monitor legislative committee hearings and floor sessions (this will be a combination of virtually and in-person).
- Communicate internally with the Public Affairs team and Fresh Energy staff about relevant developments at the Capitol.
- Represent Fresh Energy in coalition meetings with partner organizations.
- Coordinate with Capitol staff members and Fresh Energy policy experts regarding Fresh Energy written and verbal testimony in committees.
- As needed, develop written materials to submit to legislative committees for the public record.
- Support Fresh Energy’s communications team by contributing written content for Fresh Energy’s website, social media and digital platforms.
- Conduct and/or participate in specific policy and legislative research tasks and projects as assigned.
Actively participate in Fresh Energy’s culture of collaboration and model our core values.
- Model organization core values such as acting with honesty and integrity and acting to advance equity and justice.
- Exhibit a clear commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and provide leadership in continually advancing Fresh Energy’s commitment to equity and being an anti-racist organization.
- Work effectively in the context of the Public Affairs team, the broader Fresh Energy team, and with external partners, enhancing collaboration by maintaining good communication, seeking and respecting diverse viewpoints, engendering trust, fulfilling responsibilities, and ensuring that all team members and their contributions are valued.
Skills & Abilities:
- Interest in legislative advocacy and working familiarity with Minnesota’s legislative process.
- Strong organizational skills, including ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines for completion of projects.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Basic familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite and general comfort level with learning new IT applications and platforms.
- Commitment to the mission and values of Fresh Energy.
Minimum Education & Experience:
- Three or more years of relevant professional experience.
- Experience meeting annual targets.
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant field.
We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.
TO APPLY
Review of applicants will begin October 1 and continue until the position is closed on October 17, 2026.